PARTNERS using secret mobile phone apps to spy on their other halves is on the rise, according to a recent undercover investigation.

The stealthy apps can be installed by suspicious lovers to spy on their partners.

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The stealthy apps can be installed by suspicious lovers to spy on their partners

In an investigation into private detectives, India Today TV found both online and offline markets overflowing with invisible bugging software that can easily be downloaded onto an unsuspecting spouse’s mobile.

The covert programmes enable people who are worried that their partner is cheating to remotely snoop on their phone conversations and texts – as well as track all other actions on their mobile.

With no laws to regulate them, private detectives are openly selling the sneaky technology to their clients – costing anything up to Rs 25,000(£288) a year.

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With no laws to regulate them, private detectives are openly selling the sneaky technology to their clients

Detective Vibhav Gupta of the Delhi-based Key Investigation company offered to provide an India Today TV reporter, posing as a distrustful husband, with remote surveillance tech.

The detective said that the app he accessed is usually used by parents to monitor their children's activities, and by companies to keep tabs on certain employees.

One of the tools all-important features is that it can’t be spotted once it’s installed on phones.

Vibhav said: “I’ll give you a software which you just have to install (on your wife’s phone stealthily). It will only take five minutes for installation. After that her phone’s total control will be in your hands.”

“What does it mean?” asked the journalist.

“You’ll be able to hear all her incoming and outgoing calls”, Vibhav replied.

Adding: “You can check her location, all her contact details. You can see all her text messages, incoming and outgoing. You’ll be able to see all photos she’s sharing.”

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The detective quoted an annual charge of Rs 25,000 (£288) for use of the app.

All a potential spy needs is a few minutes alone with the intended target’s handset.

India Today TV's special investigation team also found a selection apps designed for prying available online - some free of charge.

Many of the apps work on all mobile platforms, including Android, iOS and Blackberry.